Online Bereavement Support
Someone you love has died and you’re looking for support but can’t find a grief support group that fits into your busy schedule. Or perhaps you don’t feel comfortable grieving in front of others; you’d prefer the comfort of your own home. And especially in these times of social distancing, webinars offer a way to connect with others who are grieving. Our webinar Conversations On Grief may be the support solution you’re looking for.
Our webinar offers monthly online access to grief support and education through your phone, computer or mobile device. From the comfort of your home, you’re welcome to participate without having to deal with traffic, long distances or childcare. Grief is a journey. It is our sincere hope that during each webinar you’ll find comfort, compassion, understanding, and encouragement as you heal.
Conversations On Grief webinars are facilitated by Bereavement Counselor, Mary Piatt, Director of Volunteer and Bereavement Services, Nancy McCranie, and Bereavement Coordinator, Esmeralda Huerta . Conversations On Grief webinars are offered the 3rd Thursday of the month from 11 am to 12 pm. You’re welcome to attend one, several or all webinars.
Mary Piatt, LPC-Associate – Mary went back to school in her fifties and started her work with Hospice Austin as a counseling intern during the pandemic. After graduating from St. Edward’s University and passing her licensure exam, Mary became a part-time employee at Hospice Austin in January 2022. She works with bereavement clients and support groups. When not working, Mary likes to do projects around her house and play in her garden. She and her husband, Dennis, have two sons, two daughters, and two cats.
Nancy McCranie, M.Div – Nancy began working for Hospice Austin as a chaplain in 1996. Since 2009 she has served as the Director of Volunteer and Bereavement Services and is a frequent speaker for area groups, leading discussions about end-of-life issues and the process of grieving a loss. Nancy is an ordained minister with the Presbyterian Church (USA) and holds a M.Div. degree from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Nancy is married to Sheldon, an organic/bio-dynamic farmer and rancher who raises blueberries and beef. They have two sons, three dogs, two cats, and a donkey.
Grief and Healing: Setting Your Intentions for the New Year
Thursday, January 16th, 2025, 11am until noon
There are times in our grief journey when we feel the need for a shift in how we are grieving. Healing comes through a willingness to allow a full and honest grief experience and the courage to act. During this webinar we will discuss the difference between intentions and resolutions, how to identify your intentions, how to incorporate them in your life, and how to check in with yourself along the way.
The Power of Gratitude in Grief
Thursday, February 20th, 2025, 11am until noon
Gratitude and grief might not seem like words that belong together when discussing loss. After all, how can one feel grateful while mourning the loss of a loved one? In this webinar, we will explore the concept of emotional agility and strategies for embracing both grief and gratitude simultaneously.
Grief: The Demanding and Uninvited Guest
Thursday, March 20th, 2025, 11am until noon
Grief is a demanding houseguest. It creates chaos, leaving dirty dishes in the sink, clothes scattered on the floor, and an empty refrigerator. It keeps odd and unpredictable hours, disrupting your sleep and leaving you feeling unrested. It also lacks social grace, intruding when you’re on the phone or trying to enjoy lunch with a friend.
In this webinar, we’ll discuss strategies for setting boundaries around the demands of grief and ways to better integrate it into your life instead of working against it.
For questions, please call Hospice Austin’s Bereavement Department: 512-342-4700.